GUIDE Dogs is urgently appealing for dog lovers to sign up as puppy raisers and join its team of volunteers in Skipton, Settle and surrounding areas.

Being a puppy raiser means being responsible for caring for a Guide Dogs puppy in your home for 12-16 months, teaching them basic commands, familiarising them with many different environments, and attending monthly puppy classes. It’s a hugely important role – a vital link in the chain of dog socialisation and training, providing the puppy with a vital foundation for its future as a life-changing guide dog.

Linda Conway, Volunteering Coordinator at Guide Dogs, said: “Many people look for new challenges at the start of a New Year but they’re not often very positive. Being a puppy raiser is such a rewarding role and you really will be making a huge impact in getting our dogs well on their way to becoming life-changers.

“Yes it can be a challenge but it’s also lots of fun and many of our volunteers go on to look after several dogs as they love it so much. You’ll also get the reward of seeing a pup develop in your home, and the satisfaction that you have had a pivotal role in training guide dogs that enable people with sight loss to enjoy the same freedom of movement as everyone else.

“Volunteering is a two-way street, so in return for your time you will get a dedicated Guide Dogs volunteer manager who will help you settle in and support you during your time with us.

A UK-wide charity with a community team based in Leeds, Guide Dogs helps people with sight loss to live the life they choose and to step out into the world with confidence. There are approximately 68,800 people living with sight loss in West Yorkshire with that number expected to increase by 19 per cent by 2030.

It costs around £55,000 to train and support a guide dog partnership throughout the life of the dog. As well as breeding and training costs, Guide Dogs covers the cost of food, vets’ bills and ongoing training after the dog is partnered with someone with sight loss.

The charity relies on donations from individuals and its network of volunteers to continue its work.

For more information and to apply to become a puppy raiser, follow this link and type in your postcode to show roles available in your area: www.guidedogs.org.uk/how-you-can-help/volunteering-for-guide-dogs